senior project manager, UX Research Operations

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Project Manager, UX Research Operations

Company: Starbucks Coffee Company

Location: Seattle, Washington, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations - UX Research Operations & Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-12

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days onsite/week)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and optimize UX Research Operations processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness for digital product teams.

• Manage the end-to-end logistics of UX research studies, ensuring seamless execution from planning to observation.

• Implement and manage research tools to improve team productivity and data management capabilities.

• Oversee participant recruitment and scheduling across US and Canadian company-owned markets, fostering strong relationships with Coffeehouse leaders and partners.

• Ensure compliance with data privacy and usage policies through robust panel management and consent form procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of Project Management and Operations, specifically within the User Experience domain. The focus is on enabling UX researchers by streamlining their operational workflows, managing resources, and ensuring the quality and integrity of research data. The "Senior" title implies a need for strategic thinking, process ownership, and potential mentorship of junior operations staff.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Streamline research operations processes by identifying operational gaps, defining improvement plans, and driving their execution to enhance the overall UX research lifecycle.

• Manage all logistical aspects of research studies, including but not limited to, setting up collaborative digital workspaces (e.g., Miro boards), coordinating equipment setup, booking observation rooms, and managing necessary travel arrangements.

• Enhance team efficiency and research output by managing, implementing, and optimizing a suite of research tools and technologies.

• Diligently track the progress of research recruiting requests, ensuring timely fulfillment and clear communication with stakeholders.

• Execute participant recruitment and scheduling across US and Canadian company-owned markets, collaborating closely with Coffeehouse leaders and partners to access diverse user groups.

• Cultivate and manage participant panels, ensuring proper documentation of consent forms and adherence to data usage and privacy reviews.

• Develop and maintain strong cross-functional relationships with design, product, engineering, and store operations teams to ensure research operations align with broader business objectives.

• Provide guidance and mentorship to research professionals on best practices in research operations and tool utilization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to operational execution combined with strategic process improvement. The emphasis on "identifying gaps and executing improvement plans" suggests a proactive role in shaping how UX research is conducted operationally.

)ext-align:left)[41; Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree required; advanced degrees in relevant fields are a plus.

Experience:

• 5+ years of dedicated research operations management experience, encompassing scope, time, cost, risk, quality, procurement, and communications management for complex projects.

• 5+ years of direct experience working with UX research teams, managing mid-sized to complex research projects.

• 5+ years of experience in building and nurturing robust cross-functional relationships within large, matrixed organizations.

• 2+ years of experience mentoring research professionals specifically in the domain of research operations.

• 5+ years of corporate experience within large, matrixed organizational structures, demonstrating an understanding of corporate environments. Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in research operations management, including end-to-end project lifecycle oversight.

• Strong proficiency in UX research methodologies and best practices for operational support.

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong cross-functional relationships and influence stakeholders.

• Experience with participant recruitment and scheduling processes for user research studies.

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills, with a keen process-oriented mindset.

• Proficient in advanced Microsoft Outlook and Teams functionalities, with a preference for experience using Teams Live Events.

• Familiarity with core UX tools such as Figma and Jira for project tracking and collaboration.

• Experience managing collaborative digital workspaces, with Miro being a strong advantage. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with data usage reviews and consent form management for research data.

• Knowledge of procurement processes related to research tools and participant incentives.

• Familiarity with risk management strategies within research operations.

• Experience in developing and managing participant panels.

• Exposure to Teams Live Events for large-scale research sessions or internal communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of deep operational project management experience and specific knowledge of UX research workflows. The significant experience requirement (5+ years across multiple areas) indicates this is a role for seasoned professionals capable of independent work and strategic influence. The emphasis on a "matrixed organization" is critical for candidates to understand the stakeholder landscape.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successfully streamlined research operations processes, detailing the problem, solution, and measurable outcomes.

• Present case studies of research studies where you managed complex logistics, participant recruitment, and tool implementation.

• Include documentation demonstrating your approach to managing research tools, including selection, implementation, and optimization strategies.

• Provide evidence of your ability to manage budgets, timelines, and resources for research operations projects, highlighting ROI where applicable.

• Examples of how you have managed participant panels, consent forms, and ensured data privacy compliance. Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your approach to documenting and optimizing research workflows, including standard operating procedures (SOPs) for recruitment, scheduling, and data handling.

• Illustrate your experience in implementing and integrating new research tools or technologies to improve operational efficiency.

• Provide examples of how you measure the effectiveness of research operations processes and report on key performance indicators (KPIs).

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Project Manager role in Operations, a portfolio demonstrating tangible process improvements and successful project execution is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to showcase their ability to manage complex operational tasks, drive efficiency, and ensure compliance, particularly concerning participant data.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: An estimated annual base salary range of $112,900 - $169,500 USD.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health coverage including Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.

• Life Insurance: Basic and Supplemental options.

• Voluntary Insurance options available.

• Disability Coverage: Short-term and Long-term.

• Generous Paid Parental Leave and Family Expansion Reimbursement.

• Paid Vacation from date of hire (accrual rates vary by state, e.g., 120-316 hours annually).

• Sick Time accrued at 1 hour for every 25 hours worked.

• Eight paid holidays and two personal days per year.

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer match.

• Stock Ownership: Discounted company stock program (S.I.P.) and Starbucks equity program (Bean Stock).

• Financial Wellness: Incentivized Emergency Savings and Financial Well-being Tools.

• Education: 100% upfront tuition coverage for a first-time bachelor’s degree through Arizona State University’s online program (Starbucks College Achievement Plan).

• Student Loan Management Resources and other educational opportunities.

• Additional Support: Backup Care and DACA Reimbursement.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work hours, estimated at 40 hours per week, with a hybrid work arrangement requiring 4 days onsite.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is estimated based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Project Manager in UX Research Operations in a high-cost-of-living area like Seattle, considering the experience requirements. Starbucks offers a robust benefits package, typical for large corporations, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being, financial security, and educational opportunities. The hybrid model with 4 days onsite is clearly defined.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Coffeehouse Chain) with a significant focus on digital innovation and employee experience.

Company Size: Large (Starbucks is a global corporation with hundreds of thousands of employees). This scale implies a need for robust, scalable processes and strong adherence to corporate standards.

Founded: 1971. Starbucks has a long history of innovation and a well-established brand identity, which influences its operational culture.

Team Structure:

• The UX Research Operations team is part of a larger User Experience (UX) team, which collaborates closely with product, engineering, and store operations.

• This role likely reports to a UX Research Manager or Director, with potential for oversight of junior operations support.

• The team operates within a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment common in large tech-enabled retail organizations. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is a core tenet, with UX research providing critical insights.

• Process optimization and efficiency are key, especially for operational roles supporting research.

• A partner-centric approach (internal employees) is emphasized, aiming to improve their work experience.

Company Website: https://www.starbucks.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Starbucks presents itself as a company that values connection, community, and employee development ("partners"). For an operations role, understanding the large, matrixed corporate structure and the importance of cross-functional collaboration is vital. The emphasis on partner experience suggests a human-centered approach to internal operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a "Senior" Project Manager role, signifying a mid-to-senior level position. It requires significant independent contribution, strategic process ownership, and the ability to mentor others. The scope involves managing complex projects and influencing operational methodologies within the UX Research function.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a UX Research Manager or Director within the broader User Experience organization. Collaboration will extend across multiple departments, including Product Management, Engineering, and Store Operations.

Operations Impact: The operations team directly impacts the efficiency and quality of UX research, which in turn informs the development of digital products and tools that enhance the partner experience. By ensuring research runs smoothly, this role contributes to better product design decisions, leading to improved partner satisfaction and operational effectiveness in stores and support centers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in UX Research Operations, project management, and process optimization. Potential to lead larger, more complex operational initiatives.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior operations staff and potentially build or expand an operations function.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Gain exposure to various aspects of product development and digital transformation at a large enterprise, potentially leading to roles in broader program management or operations strategy.

• Industry Specialization: Become a recognized expert in Research Operations within the retail technology sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a senior role, this position offers significant opportunities for developing specialized operational expertise and leadership skills. The growth paths are geared towards deepening impact within UX Operations or leveraging this experience for broader roles in program management or digital transformation within Starbucks.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role requires working onsite at the Starbucks Support Center in Seattle, WA, four days a week. This suggests a corporate office environment designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Seattle, Washington (Starbucks Support Center).

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office setting is designed for team interaction, meetings, and cross-functional collaboration, essential for a project manager role.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard corporate IT infrastructure, including Microsoft 365 suite (Outlook, Teams), and specialized UX research tools (Figma, Jira, Miro).

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities to interact with UX researchers, designers, product managers, engineers, and potentially store partners.

Work Schedule: The primary work schedule will be full-time, with an expectation of 4 days per week in the Seattle Support Center office. Flexibility within the standard work week may be available, but the onsite requirement is firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model (4 days onsite) indicates a preference for in-person collaboration and team cohesion, common in large companies that value face-to-face interaction for innovation and relationship building. Candidates should be prepared for a structured corporate office environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will review applications, focusing on alignment with experience requirements and keywords.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to assess experience in research operations, project management, and cross-functional collaboration. Expect questions about past projects and operational challenges.

• Panel Interview: Interviews with UX researchers, designers, and potentially other operations professionals to evaluate collaboration style, problem-solving skills, and specific operational expertise.

• Portfolio Review/Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present examples from their portfolio, showcasing process improvements, project management methodologies, and operational successes.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss strategic fit and long-term impact.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Impact: For any process improvement or project management example, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., time saved, efficiency gained, cost reduction, improved participant satisfaction).

• Showcase Operations Skills: Highlight your experience in managing logistics, participant recruitment, tool implementation, and process documentation. Use examples that demonstrate your "process-oriented mindset."

• Demonstrate Collaboration: Include examples of how you worked effectively with UX researchers and other cross-functional teams to achieve research goals.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to discuss your experience with specific UX tools (Figma, Jira, Miro) and collaboration platforms (Outlook, Teams).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for behavioral questions asking about how you've handled specific operational challenges, managed difficult stakeholders, or implemented change within a large organization.

• Think about a complex research operations project you led and be ready to walk through its phases, your role, challenges, and outcomes.

• Consider how you would approach streamlining a hypothetical UX research process or onboarding a new research tool.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize practical experience in research operations and project management. A well-curated portfolio that demonstrates quantifiable achievements and a strong understanding of operational processes is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management: Jira (for tracking research tasks, timelines, and issues), potentially other PM tools.

• Collaboration & Communication: Microsoft Teams (including Live Events), Microsoft Outlook (for scheduling and communication).

• UX Design & Prototyping: Figma (for collaboration, design handoffs, and potentially research documentation).

• Whiteboarding & Ideation: Miro (essential for managing research study logistics, brainstorming, and collaborative sessions).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated for this role, experience with analytics dashboards or reporting tools that UX teams use to present findings (e.g., specialized UX analytics platforms, BI tools) would be beneficial. The core focus is on operational efficiency tools. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with participant recruitment platforms or CRM-like systems for managing research participant databases and panel management.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools could be an advantage for streamlining operational tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with collaboration platforms (Teams, Outlook) and specific UX tools (Figma, Jira, Miro) is a direct requirement. The ability to manage and implement these tools for operational efficiency is key. Candidates should be ready to discuss their hands-on experience with these technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Process Excellence: A strong emphasis on developing and maintaining efficient, repeatable, and scalable operational processes.

• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork and effective communication across diverse departments to achieve shared goals.

• Partner Focus: Prioritizing the needs and experiences of internal partners (employees) by providing them with the tools and support they need.

• Data-Driven Insights: Using data and metrics to inform decisions, measure success, and drive continuous improvement in operations.

• Innovation & Adaptability: A willingness to explore new tools and methods to enhance research operations and adapt to evolving business needs.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to work seamlessly with UX researchers, designers, product managers, engineers, and store operations partners.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication regarding research timelines, participant recruitment status, and operational support.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and giving constructive feedback to improve processes and team dynamics.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices and lessons learned within the research operations community.

📝 Enhancement Note: Starbucks fosters a culture of connection and collaboration. For this role, demonstrating an ability to work effectively across different functions and communicate proactively will be crucial. The emphasis on "partner focus" means understanding and supporting the needs of internal employees is paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating a Large Matrixed Organization: Effectively managing stakeholder expectations and securing resources across multiple departments and levels within a large corporation.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Ensuring research operations are efficient enough to meet project timelines without compromising the quality and ethical standards of research.

• Tool Proliferation and Integration: Managing a diverse set of research tools, ensuring they integrate effectively, and training teams on their optimal use.

• Recruitment in Diverse Markets: Successfully recruiting participants from various demographics and geographic locations across the US and Canada, especially from store partner populations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Operations Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in UX Research Operations, project management frameworks, and operational best practices.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Potential for participation in industry events focused on UX, Research Operations, or Project Management.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Developing leadership skills through mentoring junior team members and potentially leading larger operational initiatives.

• Exposure to Digital Transformation: Gaining insights into how UX and operational excellence drive digital product development at a Fortune 500 company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges typical of large, established companies, requiring strong interpersonal skills and strategic thinking to overcome organizational complexities. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals looking to specialize in operational management within a user-centric tech environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you identified a significant gap in a research operations process and what steps you took to address it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on process improvement, problem-solving, and quantifiable results).

• "How do you prioritize competing research requests from different product teams while managing limited resources?" (Assess prioritization skills, resource management, and stakeholder communication).

• "Walk me through your experience managing the logistics for a complex, multi-phase UX research study." (Prepare a detailed case study showcasing project management, coordination, and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure data privacy and compliance when managing participant panels and consent forms?" (Demonstrate understanding of ethical research practices and regulatory awareness). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Starbucks' approach to UX and partner experience?" (Research Starbucks' digital strategy, partner-focused initiatives, and UX team's mission).

• "How would you foster collaboration between UX researchers and store partners for recruitment purposes?" (Showcase understanding of the "partner-centric" culture and how to build bridges).

• "How do you ensure your operations support aligns with the company's overall business objectives?" (Connect your operational contributions to broader business impact). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 2-3 Key Projects: Choose projects that best demonstrate your experience in research operations management, process improvement, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Structure Your Stories: For each project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on your specific actions and the quantifiable impact of your work.

• Highlight Operational Metrics: Be ready to discuss KPIs related to efficiency, recruitment success rates, participant satisfaction, and cost savings.

• Prepare for Tool Discussions: Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with Jira, Figma, Miro, and Teams, and how you've leveraged them to improve operations.

• Address the Hybrid Model: Be prepared to discuss how you thrive in a hybrid work environment and contribute to team cohesion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical, results-oriented experience in research operations and project management, with a clear understanding of the Starbucks culture and its commitment to its partners.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Project Manager, UX Research Operations position:

• Submit your application through the Starbucks careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight keywords and responsibilities mentioned in the job description, such as "UX Research Operations," "Project Management," "participant recruiting," "process improvement," and experience with "large, matrixed organizations." Quantify achievements with numbers and metrics wherever possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that showcases 2-3 impactful projects demonstrating your skills in managing research operations, improving processes, and collaborating cross-functionally. Focus on quantifiable results and your specific contributions.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Anticipate behavioral and situational questions. Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on operational challenges you've overcome and your problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with required tools like Jira, Figma, Miro, and Microsoft Teams.

• Research Starbucks: Understand Starbucks' mission, values, and recent digital initiatives. Familiarize yourself with their approach to partner experience and user-centered design to tailor your responses and demonstrate cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.